Public Speaking Tip: Correcting Someone In Others' Presence

"Correcting bad habits cannot be done by forbidding or punishment."
~ Robert Baden-Powell

There you are in a meeting when someone states something completely incorrectly. What to do? Ignore it? Tell others? Shout out the right answer or information?

While none of those are recommended, or likely effective, or good for your reputation and rapport with that person, and others, there is a solution...or two!

When you hear someone state something that is incorrect, HELP them and the situation humbly and subtly by making sure you:

H - Heard them correctly by repeating it back, and allowing them to restate or back off, and then 

E - Encouraging them to explore what that information could do or not do if more is not considered, then 

L - List other options by leading them to an improved statement or suggestion, and finally

P - Provide encouragement and collaboration for moving forward.

It will look something like this:

Pat states sales were only down 2% and that slow marketing has the projections behind when you checked that all marketing and promotions ran as planned and that sales are down 20%.

You may think "Oh no - that's way off!!", yet you say:

"Thanks for sharing that information, Pat. Please forgive me if I heard the information incorrectly, as it sounded like sales were only down 2%." Pat may or may not agree. If Pat realizes 2% was stated and 20% was the real number, you are done, and if Pat stays with it, you then say "You likely had information from earlier in the month before our final numbers were out, and that is before some other drastic drops happened. There are a lot of reports, and very recently a new report came out that I happened to get to see. Some of the options for looking at the sales are by months, by region, or by product line, and with those breakdowns, unfortunately, we will all be seeing a 20% decrease in sales after our marketing efforts went off as scheduled. I am here to assist with how you want to address that 20% decrease with strategy, sales reviews, or a joint session with marketing."

By being direct, calm, and open while not ignoring, talking with others later, or shouting, you will allow someone to save face, you build trust, and together, you can create a solution!

#PublicSpeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #Kind #Leadership

This Month's Public Speaking Tip: 6 Parts Become 4

“If you know what you want, you can have it.”
~RH Jarrett

While we have been through the six parts (not steps) to presentation prowess and public speaking success, those six are about to become four!

The parts for which we have been covering to prepare your talk, training, or pitch include the following:

1. Open-getting attention with facts/story

2. Preview-time, agenda, purpose

3. Body-sharing the information through agenda items

4. Interaction-eye contact & audience engagement

5. Summary-check purpose, agenda & do Q&A

6. Close

So, since the Close is the restating of the Open, and the Summary is the reverse order of the Preview, your four aspects to sharing information and ideas are:

1. Open/Close-Wowing and ending with facts/story

2. Preview/Summary-time, agenda, purpose to guide and review

3. Body-sharing the information through agenda items

4. Interaction-eye contact & audience engagement

Even though you may have wished your public speaking could be as easy as 1, 2, 3, it is instead as simple as 1, 2, 3, 4!!!

Avoiding Defensiveness When Being Dismissed or Played

"No matter how beautiful the theory, one irritating fact can dismiss the entire formulism, so it has to be proven." 

~ Michio Kaku

The other day on the golf course, a male golfer who we were playing with said to me "What you need to understand is..." at that moment, as I realized what was, unfortunately, happening, my husband, Michael, put his hand gently on my arm as if to say 'I see you, even if he does not'.

I felt myself tense as the words and attitude of the speaker brought a directness that was overbearing and dismissive all at the same time.

Sure, I wanted to scream or snap back, and yet that would not have been my best moment or choice. I was not going to be played. What did I do? The same thing I encourage you to do when you are dismissed or felt like an approach someone takes with you is insulting:

1) Be thankful that person showed themselves to you, and say something like "Thanks for letting me know how you feel about that."

2) Repeat back what you heard with words like "Sounds like you believe..."

3) Bring a calm perspective with verbiage such as "Here's something to please consider..."

4) End the discussion when you want with "Let's please leave it here with this..." or "Let's please respectfully close on this..."

To follow my example, I said "Thanks for sharing your view. It sounds like you believe XYZ, and while your view is yours, please consider that it may not be that of others. Let's please leave this at being respectful of each of us having the right to believe what we believe and forcing a view, or assuming you can force a view, isn't appropriate. Thank you." We hit our balls. I was sincere in my compliments of his good shots. We had a good round. If I hadn't stood up for myself, the round would have been a waste.

So, don't be dismissed, be direct. Don't be played, be powerful. When you are grateful, confirm what you heard, stay centered, and own the end of the experience, you may have felt dismissed at first and you will likely feel empowered last! 

#DoYourBest #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND  #Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #Growth

Public Speaking Tip - InterACTion

 A good teacher, like a good entertainer, first must hold his audience's attention, then he can teach his lesson. 

~ John Henrik Clarke

Have you ever felt like someone was talking over you in a presentation, looking past you or above your head? Some public speaking tips encourage that, and it seems nuts, as we, the audience members, can tell when a speaker is not engaged with the audience at all, so don't be that public speaker.

The parts for which to prepare your talk, training, or pitch include the following, and this month, the focus is on the 4th:

1. Open

2. Preview

3. Body

4. Interaction

5. Summary

6. Close

The last months covered the OPEN, the PREVIEW, and the BODY , yet the INTERACTION is where true connection happens, and that is done through ACTing in these ways:

A - Asking questions of the audience, listening to replies, and not making anyone feel they failed. If you ask a question, be prepared to rephrase it in three ways before you answer it yourself. Do not be impatient, or it will seem like you are stressed or uncomfortable. You have thought of things and the audience is just joining in, so give them time to engage.

C - Creating various tones and timing in order to engage the interests of the audience since we follow sound and motion. Speaking in louder or hushed tones to tell a story or to emphasize information gets people intrigued by your thoughtful creativity.

T - Talking with, and throughout the entire room, meaning walk around, stop, sit, and ensure people know you are available and will be near them in some way throughout the talk. If you are using projection, black the screen at times to refocus the group, for if there is nothing on the screen, they are only interacting with you, and that creates a connection.

By the way, the interaction starts long before you begin talking. Meet people, shake their hands, and be available while sincerely interested. People who meet you and connect want you to succeed, whereas, sadly, those who see you as a stranger often look for your errors or missteps. You want the audience to gain from your being there, so give to them before, during, and after your public speaking opportunity!

#publicspeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND

Public Speaking Tip: Delivering the BODY

Since you know the 4 keys to presentation prowess include being an expert, putting the audience first, getting out of your own way, and coming from a place of gratitude, the body is where you get to share your expertise fully, and that is the topic of this July Public Speaking tip.

It's still true that the parts for which to prepare your talk, training, or pitch include:

1. Open

2. Preview

3. Body

4. Interaction

5. Summary

6. Close

The last months covered the OPEN, and the PREVIEW, it is the BODY where you get to fully share the information for the audience that they want and deserve, and in the order you previewed it. In the BODY, please 

B - Be prepared with slides, handouts or examples that engage the audience

O - Offer opportunities for the audience to respond, ask and fully experience your information and connection

D - Do have logic, pictures or stories to support an orderly approach to walking through a large topic with 2, 3 or 4 agenda points (too few is too broad and 5 or more makes for discomfort for the audience thinking the talk will be rushed)

Y - Yield to the 80% rule(s), meaning, prepare for 80% of the time allotted, know that the audience only rises to about 80% (max) of your energy, so you are not to feed off them, rather than serve it up to them kindly and sincerely

These actions will make for a prepared and thoughtful approach to keep you all involved, and with the BODY in order, you can be present for everyone present! Other aspects of the public speaking prowess we are embracing includes INTERACTION  (and that will be the topic for next month's tip)!

#publicspeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND

Previewing Your Content Post-Open

"I always like to look on the optimistic side of life, but I am realistic enough to know that life is a complex matter."

~ Walt Disney

People are distracted. You, as the speaker, are the leader. Remember to keep energy, stay in control, honor the audience, and set the stage!

The parts for which to prepare your talk, training, or pitch include:

1. Open

2. Preview

3. Body

4. Interaction

5. Summary

6. Close

Last month started with the OPEN, and now it is time for the PREVIEW.

The PREVIEW sets the stage for what is going to happen. It is the opportunity to:

P - Present the agenda

R - Reveal the ways to engage

E - Engage the purpose

V - Verify the time frame

I - Include others in the direction

E - Elevate the energy

W - Welcome changes, if the direction is to be tweaked

This is quick, and sounds something like this:

In the next 30 minutes, the purpose of our time together is for you to gain insights into public speaking prowess, and that will be done through the following three topics: Engaging your audience, Preparing your talk, and Delivering with impact. This is for you, about you, and you are welcome to jump in, take photos, take a break, and make the most of it all. Is there anything missed in setting the stage?"

With the PREVIEW in order, the direction will be clear and the level of engagement will be high. Expectations will be set with agreement, and then you move to the BODY (and that will be the topic for next month's tip)!

#publicspeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND

Taking Action Thoughtfully

Stop the habit of wishful thinking and start the habit of thoughtful wishes.
~ Mary Martin

There are times when something is said or done, or not said or done, when/where you are surprised, disappointed, or flat shocked, and then there are times when everything, and everyone, flows so smoothly that it is as though a script had been written with perfect direction.

While the latter may be appealing and seemingly ideal, it is also le also less likely, so what to do when there is an oddity, peculiarity, simple oversight, awkwardness, or outright rudeness occurring?

Even though emotions may be piqued in you, implore your thoughtfulness whenever you feel that cringe of "yikes" or "oops", or even "oh my!"! By checking in to cover the following, you will know when and how to address the situations:

1) Is everyone safe? Safety has to come first. If anything is unsafe, immediately engage in creating safety, taking away anything or anyone unsafe, and getting assistance as soon as possible.

2) Is this an appropriate place for me? Am I a part of this, or am I an observer? If I am an observer, and there is safety at stake, it goes back to #1, and you get engaged, even if that means stepping away to call for the right enforcement. If you are involved, and if things are getting loud, resist telling people to "calm down", or "settle down", as that often irritates people further, rather, think about saying something like "Because you both care a lot about this TOPIC, and we are not in a place for discussion, let's please move over here" or "Since you both make passionate points, would you consider stepping into the office to talk more about this?"

3) Can I add to the resolution or am going to stoke the fire? If you can add to the resolution with a calm tone and reasonable request or suggestion, super, then say something like "Respecting I am jumping in here, would you both consider..." or "Since I may be right or wrong here, is it possible that you could ..." or "Considering I am just coming up on this, is there something I can do to assist, or is everything moving in a good direction now?", and if you would likely be stoking the flame, take a breath to redirect to assisting instead of inflaming those involved. If you are not able to get there, get out, as you are not going to assist with strong comments or antagonizing others.

Keep in mind that at no point is saying something like "Shut up", "Just stop it" or "You are embarrassing me/yourselves" is likely going to tame tempers. Instead, offering calmly and quietly "You are both likely aware that this is not the time or place for this" or "You each have your reasons, and it's reasonable for all of us to take this elsewhere for now, wouldn't you agree?"

Passions run high. Beliefs beget barking ideas sometimes. Let a little play out, and keep those three considerations in mind with kids, adults, colleagues, sports fans, and any human happenings not to keep people from expressing themselves, but rather to keep people from hurting themselves and others.

When you keep the human aspect of confrontations in mind, you can remember that some times go beautifully, and others are far from it, the humane thing is to thoughtfully pay attention and be willing to be a part of getting things (and people) cooled off with nobody feeling rejected or dismissed!

#DoYourBest #Life #Living #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Coopertition #Action

Owning YOUR OPENing Connection

Our team has always believed that neither cost and distance should ever prevent people from connecting with their friends and loved ones, and won't rest until everyone, everywhere is empowered with that opportunity.

~ Jan Koum

Like a specific dance, a score of music, or plays for a sports team, people can learn the standard moves, or improvise, but regardless of the venue, regularly following the steps in the planned order proves to be the most favorable approach. The same is true for presenting powerfully.

The parts for which to prepare in your talk, training, or pitch include:

1. Open

2. Preview

3. Body

4. Interaction

5. Summary

6. Close

The rest of the year, we will address these parts (and one more tips, too). This month, let's start with the OPEN!

Because how you begin is often how it flows, and how it flows is how it goes, and how it goes is how it concludes, the way you start your public speaking or presentation comments really matters!

While some call this a variety of words or phrases, I call it the OPEN, and this is absolutely NOT "I am so excited to be here" or "I had a hard time thinking of what I'd talk about today", or "I am so nervous to be here", as that is all about you, and not the audience, and it is about your experience, and not theirs!

Instead, think of the OPEN as a way to:

O - Offer energy and insights into your style

P - Participate WITH the audience, not talk AT them

E - Engage in thought and action

N - Navigate to the space and commitment you are grateful to get

In order to have something in your opening that is relevant to the audience and topic you can also tie it back into the close for continuity and professionalism. Options for ways to open after you have greeted/thanked/acknowledged the audience, include:

• A visual on the screen or music playing

• An activity that involves the entire audience

• An activity that involves only a few in the audience

• A statistic, study or fact presented directly or in a fun way

• A joke (if you are using intentional humor, and you are funny)

• A short story (which could involve humor or not)

When you start with something listed above, you get people introduced to your style, and they are quickly part of the experience, and not simply taking in you or your data! The OPEN will lead you to the PREVIEW, which we will cover next month.

So, open strong, and continue with strength for the audience, and about the audience, and watch your talk soar!

#publicspeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND

Don't "Try It", Do Your Best!

Success has a simple formula: do your best, and people may like it.
- Sam Ewing

Yoda famously "Do or do not. There is no try" in the Star Wars franchise during the 1980 movie The Empire Strikes Back when Yoda trains Luke Skywalker in the ways of the Jedi and urges him to take action rather than simply attempting something with a half-hearted effort.

We loved it in that show, and yet it seems to have landed and been left there...

Some people say "I'll try", and others say "Let's give it that old college try" when something new is proposed to them for action.

What do you think when you hear that? 

Perhaps you think they will give some effort, and that is likely what will happen...they will "try".

Trying is our way of protecting ourselves from failure. If we try and it doesn't go well, then the thought is 'oh well, at least I tried!'

Instead, if you hear someone say "I'll do my best", or "Let's give it our best" when put in a position to participate, what does that evoke? Likely you think, and feel the energy they are going to bring - their highest effort and interest - their best!

So when you consider an effort, either say yes or no to doing your best. Stop thinking 'should I try this?'. Your time and focus are worth more than a try, they deserve, and you deserve, your best.

If "try" is in your verbiage, language and outlook in other contexts, you can shift from "Give it a try" to "Give it a chance, and instead of 'Maybe - I'll try' can become "No, thank you, and if something changes, I'll let you know and change my reply".

Similarly, and often personally, when changing a habit, instead of uttering "I am trying to cut out sugar", rephrase to "Because I want to feel my best, I am in the process of eliminating sugar." This statement shares a continuum for success versus a slight effort.

Moving from the comfort, or perceived comfort of trying, and moving to doing your best allows you to celebrate your successes and learn from those efforts that don't hit the mark. Then, instead of trying and failing, you know you did your best, and you want more time or other people, or that it is not a match for you. You can move forward with intention instead of looking back with indifference.

So, let's agree - no more trying, let's get doing, and, let's do our best!!

#DoYourBest #Life #Living #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Coopertition #Action

Public Speaking Prowess Mindset

 "Fear paralyzes you - fear of flying, fear of the future, fear of leaving a rubbish marriage, fear of public speaking, or whatever it is."

~ Annie Lennox

One of the most important things in life, relationships, toasts, and in any industry is to remind yourself that your mindset in public speaking, as in every area of accomplishment, matters.

Keep in mind, front and center, that you’re speaking publicly often, and that it is not about a "speech" or something contrived, rather it is about communicating to connect, and ultimately demonstrate expertise and confidence through the spoken word. 

When you know this, and believe it, as it is developing relationships, it tends to alleviate a lot of that classroom perspective of “oh my gosh, I have to give a speech now” that unfortunately lingers with a lot of people when they aren’t familiar with how often public speaking, and even simple, effective communication, is a part of their daily successful exchanges.

For a Public Speaking Prowess mindset, think connection, not speech-giving, engaging, not overwhelming, and audience, not you, and your mind will guide your heart, and therefore, your effectiveness in front of a group of 1, 10, hundreds or more!

#PublicSpeaking #presenting #PresentingIdeas

Lessons Learned: Closed Door/Open Window

"Don't spend time beating on a wall, hoping to transform it into a door."

~ Coco Chanel

It is often said that when one door closes, another one opens, or that when a door closes, a window opens, and that may give us a sense of "things will work out", and yet you are encouraged to think and act upon "If I choose to close a door, I get to open another door or window!"!

I embraced this in 2022, by choosing to resign from some boards, and rolling off others as I opened up to new boards and opened my mouth to welcome some of the new board members with encouragement, and by doing that I certainly learned some lessons, including:

1) Do not let a door stand in your way - open or closed, you choose what you walk past or walk through.

2) Leaving something or someone doesn't remove the impact you had, it simply ends the experience (not the memories).

3) Look back not on the closed door, rather look back to learn from experiences to grow, and mistakes to avoid in the future that you may have missed at the moments that came up later that added to the reason you closed it.

4) Look forward to doors and windows, as well as the people who present themselves in those spaces/opportunities, as there is no fear in the unknown when you know there is hope and anticipation in the future for what can be, rather than what might not happen!

So, as I did, go ahead, and close a door, open another, open a window or more than one. It's not the closing that stops your progress, it is the opening that inspires new beginnings and forwards momentum!

#ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude

Debbie@DebbieLundberg.com 813.494.4438 DebbieLundberg.com

Stressed or Blessed?

 "Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one." ~ Hans Selye

If you were to answer the question "Are you stressed or blessed?", what would you say? Stressed? Blessed? Both?

If you think you are stressed, you will likely feel stressed. When you feel stressed, you typically approach people and situations impatiently and/or with a bit of negativity or doubt.

While if you think you are blessed, you will likely feel blessed. When you feel blessed, you will often approach people and situations with hope and openness, even positively!

Should you think the answer is "Both", you will bounce back and forth between stressed and blessed, and even though that could seem fair, go past fairness into goodness by adjusting your thoughts toward blessed. 

Blessed thoughts are those of abundance and strength, gratitude and appreciation, perspective and purpose. Being in a state of blessed in thoughts and feelings doesn't necessarily imply a religious or even spiritual connotation, yet it can be a huge part of your connectedness - however that concept of 'blessed' sits with you.

Alternatively, stressed thoughts are those of lack and fear-filled vulnerability, and can be an unfortunate part of a lack of connectedness.

By being blessed, not stressed or both stressed and blessed, you will serve yourself, and additionally, those around you will have the chance to feed off your approach and attitude!

#ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude

Debbie@DebbieLundberg.com 813.494.4438 DebbieLundberg.com

Be a Remote Work Rockstar by Debbie Lundberg

Be a Remote Work Rockstar by Debbie Lundberg

Here we are in 2020, and many have been experiencing remote work themselves, as leaders of remote workers, or both. How many, though, feel as if they can claim their efforts as “Rockstar” when it comes to working remotely?

If you find yourself embracing being out of the office, challenged to adapt to working outside the office, you thought that remote work would be short term, or even if you are considering leading a remote team, then this article is for you!

The vast world of being viral is growing, and it is my desire for you to grow, prosper, and shine on that remote stage!

Since there are norms that develop in environments (in person or otherwise), ensure your Virtual Work Etiquette is a “Do” and not a “Don’t.”

And, while the foundational efforts will absolutely be covered, this is less about simply conducting work remotely, and more about rockin’ it – this is about being a Remote Work Rockstar!

And, as I explore, define, or even defend choosing the word Rockstar, please know that the vision of a Rockstar is that of someone who presents professionally, feels confident, and has both pride and humility in efforts…whether with others in the same space, across miles, or across the internet.

I have worked remotely for my entire (nearly)14-year practice, and much of my time with General Motors and Dale Carnegie Training. In fact, I delivered talks and webinars on the topic of Remote Work Success as part of my practice for over a decade.

As the typical in-office workforce became remote workers overnight, many scrambled to put together an office space quickly. It became apparent that long-lasting change to how we worked would propel all of us into the future. Working remotely was not just a passing trend, or burden, or luxury, depending on your vantage point, for only a few.

Continuing to see both successes and mistakes being made, the demand for even more remote work content was immediate. After all, remote work success is quite different than remote work survival.

Defining remote work may seem like something very simple, and yet it is not. It is not simple because people have complicated the concept with misperceptions over the years. The term “remote work” is intentionally used here as the type of work that is completed away from an office or from an entity’s headquarters or regional location. Other words or terms that are appropriate to use include off-site work, virtual work, telework, and the phrase “working remotely”

Phrases such as “working from home”, “work from home”, or “home at work” are not recommended!

The reason “remote work” is used is because it includes the concept of work that is being done, along with the idea that it is done off-site or remotely. When phrases such as “work from home” are used, it introduces the idea of being at home and doing things that we typically do in our house or home while merely attempting to co-mingle or fit in our work

Respecting this may seem like semantics, and, to a certain degree, it is, at the same time, remote work keeps the emphasis on the work and the fact that we are being respectful of the work being done. This way, all of us are avoiding that implication that we think someone is doing things at home and happens to be including some work along the way!

That brings me to whether or not remote work is for everyone.

If you did experience any conversations about remote work in the recent past, and it would be surprising if you had not, and you had an interest in this book, it may be because many people talked at length about their dislike for remote work.

It is my hypothesis that remote work can be as productive, or more productive, as on-site work, for the right temperament, conditions, and expectations. Nearly anyone put in a remote work environment without the proper positioning and support, will minimally have missteps, and likely, have failures and therefore may seem as though they are not suited for remote work.

Am I saying everyone is suited for remote work? No, I am not. However, please believe that nearly everyone can function successfully when working remotely if given the opportunity to appreciate how remote workflow and the expectations of a remote worker are anticipated at the onset (or as soon as you finish this article).

Think of the following for engaging in, and leading effectively when remote, or a part of a remote team or remote leadership effort:

• Define remote work. Use the terms “Remote Work”, and “Working Remotely” in all communication regarding off-site engagements and employees.  And, remember that people who choose to do some work at night off-site, after work at home or on the weekends, when they typically work in the office, are not the same as remote workers. Stay true to how remote work is defined for your teams, especially if some of your team members switch back and forth from remote work and office work for projects and/or assignments.

• Get set up remotely. Respecting there exists a list of everything that would be ideal for remote work, and perhaps something to target over time, regardless of how long someone will be working remotely, the minimum for an effective life as a Remote Work Rockstar is here:  A dedicated space. While the best scenario is that room with a locking door, we respect that may not be “in the cards” for everyone. To dedicate space, here is what that may look like:    a desk set up in a room that is shared with another purpose, a desk built into a nook or attached space in the kitchen, a table in place of a desk for teleworking, a portion of a table that is taped off (yes, really tape it off) or divided for work and something else, a card table that is set up and taken down at various times due to space-sharing. This space is to be called the “office” or “workspace”, and there must be a device with a good camera and phone to use. Additionally, professional comfort is the key to success there! So, set up a budget and be mindful of what a remote workspace is like in order to respect it!

• Set expectations and establish habits. Not surprisingly, many people transition to remote work without any discussion about the change, questions, concerns, or expectations. Sometimes the change is as swift as being in the office on a Friday and starting remotely on the following Monday. I absolutely don’t recommend that! Expectation-setting starts with a conversation. Be careful, as there can be actions that seem like micromanagement and others that feel like “sink or swim” when working remotely. To avoid that, as a Remote Work Rockstar, or RWR in-process, first, discuss topics such as hours, communication styles, your work and your contribution, priorities, PTO, and any other dynamics as soon as possible, including weekly, yes, weekly, one-on-one video meetings. Ensure you have good habits such as a consistent sleep schedule, sound eating for your body, and times you are not working! Setting timers each day and sharing your plans with anyone else in your space will keep you organized and on-time…and likely sane!

• Master your mindset. Mindset may first strike you as a bit “woo-woo” for a business article, and yet it is not something I’d ever want to overlook for the Remote Work Rockstar. A Remote Work Rockstar mindset is one of “Can do”, and it is one of “Let’s go”, and “Bring it on”, and yet it is not one of “It’s all on me” or “I have to do this alone”, or “My team is not a team, so who is going to handle this if I don’t handle it”, and has the following approach:                        

R – Realistically setting and accepting expectations

O – Opening your approach to collaboration

C – Checking in on time, resources, and progress   

K – Keeping focused on what is best, and not just being right         

S – Setting incremental hurdles to overcome en route to the bigger win     

T – Talking with others (not just “to” others about the what, how, when and who)

A – Accounting for each person’s commitment, and especially your own   

R – Reflecting on what is going well, what can be improved, and stating gaps and goals 

• Communicate effectively. Remote Work Rockstars see communication as not one-way or two-way, rather as every way, meaning it is about the verbal, written, non-verbal and visual communication…and the timing and perspective on all of it makes an impact as well! For communicating as an off-site contributor, often extra effort is required, meaning your impression on others is based on emails and phone calls along with video representation across a platform of choice. Watch accusations, use empathy in tone, and focus on collaboration, versus being right. Practice your Emotional Intelligence. Think of Emotional Intelligence as "the ability to recognize and assess one's own and other people's emotions, while discriminating among the various emotions and label them appropriately in order to guide perspectives and actions as a guide to thinking and behavior". Remote Work Rockstar Leaders level up communication through approachability and adaptability. Much like in the Real Estate market, the thoughts go to “location, location, location”, in leadership, and especially in Remote Work Rockstar leadership, it is all about “communication, communication, communication”!

• Get video savvy. Video sessions are not calls, they are meetings or webinars. Calls are on the phone. People get confused and even blindsided when someone asks for a call, and then there is video involved. To have meeting magnetism via video, be prepared for video at all times you are working your designated work hours. Tips such as checking your camera for functionality and for a quality picture, registering for meetings, getting on early to check sound and how your professional appearance is being conveyed, go a long way. Resist being that person with a hat, no video, or a bad connection when you can avoid it by being ready and engaged with a virtual background and camera at eye-level, minimally for looking and feeling good about video exchanges.

• Stay connected. Even though you are a Remote Work Rockstar, you still want to engage with people socially and professionally within your company and outside of your company. As a result, ensure you have interests outside work, reach out on professional social media, such as LinkedIn to get connected, stay engaged, and participate in posts and groups, offer to assist, mentor and/or coach someone else to enhance that person’s life, and eventually, be a small (or large) part of creating a new Remote Work Rockstar through your interest and involvement.     

There you have it, ROCKSTAR! From getting defined as remote work to getting set up, working, and staying connected, you have a glimpse into a handbook for your continued success. Congratulations!

Please use this as a reference for your efforts and those following in your footsteps. Remember to encourage others to embrace the approaches, tips, and tools to propel them forward in whatever work they are doing. My book, REMOTE WORK ROCKSTAR, available at Lulu.com or https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/debbie-lundberg-and-barb-zant-and-sue-nance-and-betsey-hapner/remote-work-rockstar/paperback/product-pg7d25.html

Here’s hoping you were intrigued, inspired, and called to action through the ideas you just. Remember, not only that remote workers and team members can be, and are ROCKSTARS, it is also that being off-site can be an asset and not a disadvantage.  Additionally, striving to be a Rockstar is meant to empower the remote worker and the leaders of remote workers to assess and respect what makes us alike as well as different, and not set an unrealistic standard for performing telework.

Remote work, as we know, is not “working from home”, and Remote Work Rockstars are not about being the rock of a team or company, solely, and yet they, you, can rock your world by being a professionally engaged, dynamic contributor from anywhere as you continue to engage in all you can to enhance your impact on your journey as a Remote Work Rockstar!

Get Your Copy of REMOTE WORK ROCKSTAR Now

_____________________________________________________________________________

Debbie Lundberg believes "how you present is how you are remembered"!

She is the principal of Presenting Powerfully where she is both an educator and an entertainer. In her practice of "edutainment" she is "Reversing the Slobification”™ of America" in the areas of effective communication, professional behaviors and thriving relationships through four offerings: Keynotes & Talks, Strategy & Facilitation, Teaming & Training, and Employee Development & Executive Presence Coaching.

As an 11-time published author, certified life coach, certified leadership coach, and certified image consultant who speaks, facilitates, trains and coaches/consults nationally, She is a monthly contributor with a business etiquette column feature in the Tampa Bay Business and Wealth magazine. Her 2020 book, REMOTE WORK ROCKSTAR quickly became a guide for leaders and workers in the virtual environments of today.

Additionally, Debbie is co-hosting two podcasts: The Business Of Life (TBOL) Master Class Podcast with her colleague, where the under-20-minute interviews provide listeners with inspiration and encouragement for life and business, and Lipstick Leadership, where she and her co-host focus on quick tips for overcoming leadership challenges.

Debbie earned her BA at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI, and holds an MBA from Edgewood College in Madison WI. Debbie, Michael, and their four-legged daughters, Lexi and Daisy, known to many as "Team Lundberg", enjoy living in Tampa, FL, where they settled in 2004.

A Lesson from 10,000 Steps to Sunrise

At the time of writing this, it was day 40 of what I am calling 10,000 Steps to Sunrise. Getting in 10,000 steps each day has been part of my day for quite a while.

Being the Chair of The American Heart Association's Circle of Red, being active, and simply being my own health advocate, I find the tracking a challenge and sense of success to know I am doing something good for my body (and mind) each day.

Since I am "Grounded" and most of my typical business is outside my home location, it was my decision to drive up the goal and get to 10,000 steps before sunrise Monday through Saturday and 10,000 steps before sunset each Sunday.

Throughout this longer-than-expected journey on foot, my mind, and my heart gained perspective and many ideas.

The lessons learned from this (still continuing) experiment include:

1) There is a calm in the morning where ideas flow without resistance
2) People who work out at the same time each day (I have worked out between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM since 1992) appreciate their personal space and yet have a connectivity to others who enjoy that same time to feed their movement needs/desires
3) Speaking up and out in the morning with a friendly "Hello" can make someone's day start positively (even if they don't acknowledge you back)
4) Focusing on those who engage versus wondering the reasons people do not means having joy ready and waiting each day

So, even if you do or don't strive for the 10,000 step accomplishment, please think about how your goals and activities can impact and or include others in subtle and grand ways.

I'll continue to make the 10,000 Steps to Sunrise a priority while in this new temporary time with gratitude for my walking and running partners, Lynn, Supna, and Michael, and even when we move forward without being "grounded", I'll certainly continue to embrace these lessons learned!

#PresentingPowerfully
#LearnWithAndThroughOthers
#LifeLongLearning
#ComplementaryThoughts
#BeInspired
#LearnWithAndThroughOthers

Removing the un in unLUCKY!

During these times of feeling uncertain, uneasy, and even unlucky in situations, scheduling and even in life, in general,
make the most of your opportunities through the use of LUCKY-ness, meaning:

L - Limiting negativity and supposition,
U - Understanding your need for rest and rejuvenation (and honoring it),
C - Creating a community that supports one another,
K - Keeping a perspective on what IS going well and how to maintain it,
Y - Yielding not to the temptation of panic and paranoia.

When you own the unLUCKY, you can own the LUCKY, and therefore, remove the "un" in the way you handle your path and position!

For the LOVE of Love!

Since it is the month of LOVE, how do we embrace love instead of being lonely if love doesn't serve us well, find us on the 14th of February, or if love simply doesn't seem as romantic as in books, on other people's social media, or the movies?

It's not easy, rather here are four simple (easy and simple are very different) approaches to fill your heart and mind with loving approaches to life.

For the LOVE of love, and for the best way to embrace LOVE please consider the following:

L - Look at people and situations for what they are, and not what you want them to be, or wish they would be. Seeing individuals and circumstances in the eye of reality means approaches can be taken, plans can be made, and expectations can be set in a way that will likely not disappoint in the future (even if you are a bit disappointed at the first true view of things and folks). Looking from a place of "right now" means you can set the stage right for love!

O- Open your eyes, mind and heart to possibilities. Be aware, yes, and be willing, too. Openness can create challenges and discomfort, and yet through openness comes opportunity and through opportunity comes growth. Opening your horizons to new activities, new people, and newness overall can create new hope! Hope springs eternal when we are open to love!

V - Vulnerability-ize yourself, meaning instead of protecting yourself from the unknown, take chances in words, actions, plans, and outreaches. Push yourself to do something different, something that dares you to explore. It doesn't have to be big first, and yet that can grow into many more explorations. Through being vulnerable, there is a risk that you can get hurt, and yet with vulnerability can come a love...a love for a new hobby, place, person or more!

E - Embrace all you already have. Sometimes the feeling of a lull in love or lack of love means a slight shift away from appreciation. Embracing life, friends, family, your home, your health and more, allows for a warm heart and an opportunity for more gratitude. And, embracing the idea of loving what you've received and created is embracing the idea of more love!

So, Valentine's week or not, consider the look, the openness, the vulnerability, and the embracing of you and your life...for your LOVE of love!

Getting Back on Track Post-Holidays

With the trees and menorahs put away, and the Happy New Year greetings capturing our energy and interest, the holiday hangover can be real!

 

So, how do you get back on track after the holidays, or any break? Please consider these four steps to regaining focus, purpose and enthusiasm for what you are going to accomplish:

1. Make a list of all your previous accomplishments and a list of things for which you are grateful
2. Clean/clear out your space – whether that be physical or electronic – make that a priority, as a clean space is a productive space
3. Make a list of goals and stretch goals that are specific and measurable with time frames tied to the accomplishments without the words more, better, less, etc, as this is about being accountable to success not just subjective hopes
4. Calendar activities that will get you to results and plan time for reflection and unexpected happenings, and follow your calendar as a guide to empower and not a list to restrict. Build in rewards for your accomplishments in order to feel and see the success.

 

When you are distracted or down, go back to the lists and calendar and keep moving forward based on previous wins as you plan for continued growth!

Being Your Own Biggest Fan!

"Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy."

 ~ Norman Vincent Peale 

American Clergyman/Speaker.

(1898 - 1993)

Sure, it's great to get kudos, thanks, and accolades for work or words well-done, and yet relying on others' views and shared opinions of you can leave you feeling dependent, or worse yet, desperate, for that feedback.

How do we overcome that desire to get input and hear praise? While we may not ever not seek feedback, after all, it is good for us, we can share insights and good cheer from within in an effort to support and supplement, and dare to be the foundation, to good vibes, and therefore, good self-esteem. Being our own biggest fan can be done without conceit or vanity, rather for good health and well being by doing the following:

• Practicing GRATITUDE. By being thankful for what we have we are reminding ourselves of the good in our world/life.
• Taking a POWER STANCE each day. These were shared most widely in the Ted Talk by Amy Cuddy. Opening up to a Superman/Wonder Woman type stance for two minutes can empower our energy to be confident. https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are?language=en
• Have a MANTRA. I have the mantra "I want, I will, I am", which has been shared in previous updates. Think "I want _____ (a desired outcome), and I will _____ (an action to take), because I am _______ (characteristic or attribute about self)." An example is "I want to be on time for meetings and clients today, so I will tend to my directions for the entire day while planning, because I am a conscientious collaborator and partner." A mantra sets you up to "be" based on your own abilities.
• Give yourself a PERSONAL PEP TALK. Something that says "You've got this!". Talk to yourself and use your name. Once I share to myself if "You've got this, Deb. You know what you are doing, prepared for success, and you're going to deliver what the audience wants and deserves. Enjoy it!"
• Develop a CEO of MEO mission statement, meaning be the Chief Empowerment Officer of My Every Opportunity. My current CEO of MEO is: "I am a lean, pristine, high-performing human being bringing positivity to people, situations and choices in order to be present and live life fully"! This form of I AM statement commands attention from the strengths you have toward the now and the future.
• Write your future state in a paragraph as though it is an article about you now. Use third person to take a view from afar while getting into up-close details.
• Meditate and let go of stress that is not serving you well.
• Shift from poor-serving habits with well-serving habits. Simply giving things up can seem like punishment, so exchange those habits with something positive and see how the pivot makes the change a direction and not detrimental.
• Replace "Have to, Need to, Should, Ought to" with "I want, I will, I am, I am in the process of" to focus on what you are processing for progress rather than what you are doing our of obligation.
• Write a compliment on your bathroom mirror to yourself each morning first thing so that you'll see it all day long and appreciate you being you!

Some things may seem small, and they are. Some things may seem simple, and they are. Some things may seem silly, and they are NOT! Investing in your belief, reflection, support and confidence is anything other than silly, and everything around smart!

BEAM Support of/to Others

While being self-assured is tremendously important, support of others is as well.

When you want to share that, consider BEAMing that support through these four things/approaches:

B - Belief
E - Empathy
A - Awareness
M - Mindfulness

Sharing belief, expressing empathy, having awareness of what may be challenges and goals, and being mindful of any obstacles and others involved will allow you to be supportive without manipulating, and encouraging without managing.

A way to BEAM is "Tom, because you thrive in front of a group, and I believe in your abilities to persuade, you will impact so many at this conference by telling your story and asking for support of our product. The Board and I look forward to your keynote!

BEAM away, as shining light on others takes none away from you, and perhaps brightens theirs!!

SHARE Your Brainstorming

If you want to get ideas out on the table, and you want other people's input, too, brainstorming is an excellent approach to collaboration and advancement.

Still, we often have brainstorming sessions that stifle people, have biases, and end as simply a formality to getting someone's idea in place.

SHARE your brainstorming successfully by doing the following 5 things:

S - Set the stage for the expected
 outcomes and set the stage with a clear problem statement to solution
H - Have rules of engagement that level sett the room and letting everyone know his and her ideas count, and how NO is not part of the conversations, and that personal attacks are in the past along with courtesy and openness being part of the present..."
A - Ask for input and record all of them without discussion
R - Revisit each idea after all are recorded in order to keep, alter, or dismiss for that problem
E - End the session by selecting and agreeing to moving forward with a plan and thanking the participants

Using the SHARE approach to brainstorming becomes an approach to solutioning situations with collaboration and buy-in!